AutoMotion Blog

2015 Jeep Renegade is a New Off-Road-Ready Compact SUV

Jeep introduced the new 2015 Renegade at the 2014 Geneva International Motor Show, debuting the new compact SUV to a global audience in part because it will be sold in more than 100 different markets all around the world. With unmistakable heritage that is evident with just a glance, the 2015 Jeep Renegade was designed in the United States but will be built in Italy.

"The all-new 2015 Jeep Renegade expands the brand's product portfolio and targets the rapidly expanding small SUV segment around the globe with benchmark levels of efficiency and driving dynamics, while at the same time delivering best-in-class 4x4 capability that customers expect from Jeep," said Mike Manley, president and CEO--Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC.

The new Jeep Renegade is a 5-passenger SUV designed to offer off-roading talent combined with classic brand design cues, a small footprint, and the open-air driving experience that characterizes classic Jeeps. It is offered with a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine or a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder diesel engine, a 9-speed automatic transmission, and a choice between two Active Drive 4-wheel-drive (4WD) systems, each equipped with Selec-Terrain technology.

To improve traction, either 4WD system can deliver all of the available engine power to a single wheel to help the Renegade extract itself from tight spots. To improve fuel economy, both 4WD systems feature a rear-axle disconnect that helps to eliminate parasitic drain on fuel economy.

A 2015 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk model will be the most capable version off-road. It features the more capable Active Drive Low 4WD system, a suspension lift and 8.7 in. of ground clearance, as well as modified front and rear styling to improve approach and departure angles. This version also features 17-in. aluminum wheels, all-terrain tires, skid plates, hill-descent control, and telltale red tow hooks jutting from the front end.

Jeep installs the buyer's choice of Uconnect infotainment systems, the larger and more expensive version featuring Uconnect Access services as part of an extra-cost subscription. The new Renegade will also offer a reversing camera, rear cross-path detection system, lane-departure warning system, forward-collision warning system, and a blind-spot information system.

Jeep has not announced prices for the new 2015 Renegade, or stated when this new small SUV might arrive in U.S. showrooms.